Undergraduate Institution and Major:

Graduate Advisor:

Description of Graduate Research:

The Thayer lab is focused on delineating the molecular mechanisms underlying HIV neurotoxicity, and studying the role of the endocannabinoid (eCB) system as a modulator of disease processes. My project is examining how HIV viral proteins affect the eCB system. Changes in eCB signaling may impair the neuroprotective capability of the eCB system to combat synaptodendritic damage that is thought to underlie the neurocognitive deficits seen in nearly half of all HIV-positive individuals. I employ a combination of whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology in primary hippocampal neurons and live-cell confocal imaging techniques.

Rotations:

Research Categories:

Neurodegenerative Diseases & Neural Injury

Synaptic Plasticity & Learning

Why Did You Choose MN?

The faculty here are conducting top-tier research, especially in the field of neurodegenerative disease. Additionally, the sense of camaraderie among of fellow graduate students and faculty is incomparable to any other program I have experienced.